Topics in Subtropics

In recent years, several organic herbicide products have appeared on the market.

Brevipalpus mite species belong to a larger group or family of mites the Tenuipalpidae, referred to as flat mites. The genus Brevipalpus is considered the most important one in the family. The mites are small ranging in size from 200-400 micrometers in length, flattened and frequently red in color.

Along the coast, it is very common to see windbreaks protecting the citrus and avocado groves. Invariably the first two rows next to the eucalyptus trees are shorter and less thrifty than the citrus further away from the windbreak.

It's been a dry year and you don't expect it, but there's been a lot of "tear staining" of fruit. It has become most apparent this spring with the dew along the coast and the humidity. I've had a number of calls from growers this year because it has downgraded their fruit.

Farming has plenty of challenges. One of the hazards that farmers worry about the least are the dangers from working in the sun year-round. Harvest time can provide a reminder for farmers to pay attention to the condition of their skin.